An axis for artistic and creative-types of the Asian persuasian… Redefining Otaku Culture.

Menu

Tag Archives: wedding

Celebrities are no strangers to lavish and extremely costly weddings. They’ve been known to spend upwards of millions of dollars on the venue, dress and jewels, and then their wedding photos get plastered all over celebrity and gossip magazines. As the wedding season wound itself down, there was still time for a few October weddings, which included the exceptionally extravagant affair celebrating the nuptials of Angelababy and Huang Xiaoming. They spent around $31 million for their nuptials! That is more than Kim Kardashian-West and Kanye West’s wedding in 2014!

In case you haven’t heard of her, Angelababy, a play off her English name and nickname, is a model, actress and singer and has arguably the number one most desirable face in all of Asia. She had a brief role in Hitman: Agent 47 and will play a character named Rain in Independence Day: Resurgence. She’s also been dubbed the “Kim Kardashian of China” by Western media outlets.

Huang Xiaoming is her husband and he’s no slouch either when it comes to the acting game. His most notable roles on TV were Return of the Condor Heroes and Shanghai Bund, both of which were critically acclaimed successes in China.

Together they form a celebrity power couple that may have no equal in the entire world. They spent $31 million on the wedding, that’s almost three “Kimye” weddings. What sort of wedding does that kind of money actually get you?

▼ A custom handmade Christian Dior dress that took five months to make

We can only imagine what else was prepared for their special day, which also involved a $1.5 million ring and special gift bags for guests that included mobile phones. A wedding like this is something many of us wouldn’t even dream of! The average person usually has something simple and starts sweating bullets if the number $31,000 gets thrown around, let alone $31 million. But that is the benefit, or detriment, of being a celebrity couple and needing to invite 2,000 of your closest friends to your wedding.

While Japanese traditional-style weddings are still popular, most newlyweds tend to tie the knot with weddings based on Western-style themes and traditions with the bride in a white, flowing gown and the groom in a sharp tux. But what about a wedding that’s espionage-themed?

That’s what this promo forMetal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain attempts to showcase. The video hilariously chronicles the pair’s most important day, from the altar approach to the couple’s profile videos and even the banquet afterwards. The video peaks when the father finally gives away his daughter to his new son-in-law with a ceremonial PlayStation Dual Shock 4 controller, but to an incredibly confused caterer who has no idea what’s going on.

While this is surely an exciting time for engaged couples, you don’t need me to tell you that it can be stressful planning a wedding. For instance, those who have close relatives in foreign countries may end up with guests who simply can’t make it because a trip to America is expensive. This is just one of the reasons many couples are now opting for a destination wedding in Asia. It can be easier for some relatives to travel to, and with the right budgeting, a wedding in Asia can even be less expensive than having a wedding in America. Sounds like a win-win!

So if you’re considering a wedding in Asia, we’re here to help! Check out our top 5 wedding destinations as well as specific locations we recommend to have the wedding of your dreams.

1. Taiwan – Lakeside Luxury

Taiwan has become a global trendsetter in the wedding industry, inviting international couples to celebrate the beginning of a new life together on the beautiful island. Many find that they are able to have more lavish parties and photoshoots for a fraction of the price. Taiwan has proven to be a great choice for those on a budget but don’t want to compromise on their happy day.

Where in Taiwan?One of the eight wonders of Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is a scenic jewel in the island’s mountainous heart. The romantic lake transforms throughout the day to create different moods. In the early morning it is misty and mysterious. During the day it is a mirror of the mountains and forests that surround it. At sunset it shimmers with gold dust, and after dark, the lights of the villages and temples reflect gently across its surface. A stay at the Fleur de Chine Hotel, situated on the northern peninsula of the Sun Moon Lake, presents these magnificent views, as well as services and accommodations for an elegant outdoor wedding. Under the sun and moon, surrounded by the sky and earth, couples will surely take home sweet, unforgettable memories.

2. Indonesia – Island Dreams

For those dreaming of a storybook wedding, Indonesia can provide dreamy backdrops and vivid imagery. With botanical gardens, intimate beaches and cliff top venues overlooking the Indian Ocean, Bali effortlessly sets the scene for romance.

Where in Indonesia?
Consider Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort for your stay and venue. The picturesque property transports guests to an otherworldly setting where postcards come to life. Pan Pacific’s grand location, luxurious facilities and excellent service was recently selected to host Miss World. Guests can play around on the award-winning Greg Norman golf course and enjoy spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean. The resort’s spacious coastline lawns serve as a perfect wedding location with incredible views of Tanah Lot and its iconic temple.

3. Singapore – Chic Cityscape

If you opt for a more modern wedding in the city, Singapore is your place to go. The island country is known for its surreal city skyline. Singapore is not only considered one of the safest places to live, it is also boasted to be the food capital of the world. Sounds like a solid place for a wedding!

Where in Singapore?Marina Bay Sands Singapore is home to the futuristic Skypark, one of many iconic architectural buildings in Singapore. Its daring design and breathtaking rooftop decks, including the world’s largest infinity pool at 57 stories above ground, draw many couples to this contemporary resort. The Skypark’s landscaped rooftop gardens offers 360-degree views of Singapore and its offshore islands, easily becoming the most photogenic venue for couples tying the knot. World-class chefs and culinary concepts are also available to satisfy every taste.

4. Thailand – Golden Hours

A country rich with culture and beautiful scenery, Thailand is one of the most versatile destinations for a wedding. From nature parks and beaches to Buddhist temples, there is a venue for every bride’s vision. Thailand’s prime location in the center of Asia also makes it a sensible choice for those inviting relatives from all over Asia.

Where in Thailand?
The Four Seasons Tented Camp, situated in an elephant sanctuary in the jungles of northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle, is right on the border of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. Intimate tented camps perched on private platforms receive six-star service to ensure guests have the best experience during their stay. Still not convinced? Imagine dressing in soft Thai silks while riding a gentle elephant through the bamboo jungle before your wedding ceremony. Yes, it’s just as beautiful as it sounds.

5. India – Heaven in the Hills

There are many hidden gems in India when it comes to finding the perfect getaway. Its long history and strong cultural traditions make India a special destination to experience. For instance, the “pink city” of Jaipur is a popular choice for those interested in exploring the diversity of wedding venues available, such as ornate palaces, old mansions and private villas.

Where in India?
Nestled in the undulating Aravalli hills is the gorgeous Tree of Life Resort & Spa. This venue features 14 luxury villas built using local styles and designs to reflect Rajasthan’s long architectural history. Complete with an infinity pool at its center and private outdoor spas for each villa, this resort was created with a vision of a heaven away from the bustle of city life. Guests also have the opportunity to dine in their villa from a personalized 4-course menu that guests can design daily with the head chef’s help. Talk about an extravagant getaway!

A drone is an aerial vehicle which can fly around without a human pilot aboard. Instead, this aircraft is guided remotely. Now I don’t know about you, but nothing about remote airplanes scream “romantic” to me. Well, it seems Zhang Ziyi’s boyfriend Wang Feng intends to change that.

Zhang Ziyi, the Chinese actress most known for her roles in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), House of Flying Daggers (2004) and Memoirs of a Geisha (2005), just celebrated her 36th birthday. Her boyfriend Wang Feng, a Chinese rock musician, decided that she needed much more than a rainbow cake to celebrate her birthday.

Pictures have made it onto the internet showing a small, white drone flying towards the couple. Wang Feng apparently reached into the basket hanging from the drone and pulled out a diamond ring before getting down on one knee and asking for Zhang Ziyi’s hand in marriage.

According to Chinese media, Wang made a promise to take care of Zhang even in old age. The two then embraced and kissed as fireworks lit the sky.

Wang followed this up by posting a few words on his own microblog. “Thanks for giving me a perfect life — all hardships are already in the past,” he posted on Sunday. “From here on out, we’ll grow old hand-in-hand.”

Needless to say, fans are delighted with the extravagant proposal. Even after seeing our fair share of unique marriage proposals, a drone proposal is still a rare sight. So tell us. Is a ring-bearing drone cute or way too over the top?

Taiwanese singer-songwriter Jay Chou, known for his poignant lyrics and signature fluid voice, got married last week. Based on the pictures, the wedding was nothing short of a fairytale. And with a skilled lyricist like Chou as the groom, you can only imagine what the vows must have been like.

The romantic occasion took place in Yorkshire, England and despite speculation (there were gorgeous engagement photos thanks to celebrity wedding planner Sarah Haywood), details of the wedding managed to stay a secret until Chou released photos on Facebook.

In the past, Chou said he would get married by the age of 35. He lived up to the promise, but he definitely cut it close. Chou was married January 17th, the day before his 36th birthday.

Chou married the beautiful Hannah Quinlivan, a 21-year-old Australian Taiwanese model who he had met four years ago. Only family members and close friends were invited, and even they arrived in England without knowing where the ceremony would specifically be held. In fact, the exact date was ambiguous as well. Since then, however, Chou has posted photos of the dreamlike event on Facebook.

Held in Selby Abbey, the wedding has been hailed the wedding of the century by many in Taiwan. Just look at the bride’s gorgeous gown and you’ll see that the statement definitely holds some ground. To imagine Chou’s start as a struggling musician to the Asian music icon he is today, paired with the fresh-faced bride, the fairytale feeling really is a fairytale in its own way.

Here is a clip of the ceremony:

Prior to the wedding, a European-style photo shoot was posted on his Facebook. The engagement photos show the two in Paris, Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle and Prague.

The two have announced that they want to have a baby for the Chinese Year of the Sheep (2015), and Chou is set to film a movie in England, but will fly back to Taiwan in March for a wedding banquet.

A travel agency in Japan offers “solo wedding trips,” with all the romance and none of the man.

Mashable: If he liked it then he should’ve put a ring on it — but since he didn’t, there’s no reason you can’t.Or at least, that’s one Japanese travel agency’s message to women.

Cerca Travel, an agency which also offers Kyoto, Japan, food and art tours among other things, launched a “solo wedding trip” earlier this year. For prices starting at £1,706 ($2,645) “per bride,” according to the Kyoto Convention Bureau.

“Are you starting 2015 single and dreaming of your big day, but lacking the all-important ring or groom to get you there? Or is it the case that you simply dream of being dressed in a stunning traditional Japanese kimono but have never had the chance? … Cerca Travel is offering wannabe brides the chance to create the picture perfect Japanese wedding without the need to officially tie the knot.”

Cerca Travel President Yukiko Inoue said she created the package “to encourage women to have positive feelings about themselves.”

It’s a two-day package in Kyoto. The first day involves a dress consultation, and the selection of either a traditional Japanese gown or a white wedding dress.

The second day includes a hair and makeup session, with a photographer capturing the preparation as well as taking glamour shots in the Japanese garden of Shugakuin Kirara Sanso. There’s also an option to hire a Japanese groom for the photos, or a partner to have dinner with the first night. There’s no actual wedding ceremony, just the garb and the photos.

“Solo wedding trips” in Japan give single women the wedding experience without the marriage.

“This package boosted my sense of self-esteem,” said Tomoe Sawano, who took a solo wedding trip. “The effect was equal to a more extraordinary experience, such as visiting a World Heritage castle.”

About 30 women have booked the trip since it started in May of this year, according to Kyodo News.

That’s a small sample size, but it says something about who is interested in the trip: About half of the women were currently married, but had not had a wedding. Or, they had one, but were unsatisfied with it.

More Japanese people are living alone now, for various reasons including an aging population, urbanization, waiting to marry and increasing divorce rates, according to the Japan Times. And Japan’s government is concerned about the country’s low marriage rate, which it hopes to address because of a declining population.

All of these things don’t necessary point to a desire to have a wedding without a mate, though.

Instead, the solo wedding package feels like it falls somewhere between a self-care trip and a self-marriage — the former being more common than the latter.